Dehradun:
Heavy overnight rainfall severely disrupted normal life across Dehradun, causing widespread waterlogging, road damage, and traffic disruptions. Several roads were affected by erosion, while fallen trees blocked key routes. The most striking damage was reported at a recently inaugurated bridge near Nanda Ki Chowki, where the approach road caved in, raising fresh questions about construction quality.
₹16 Crore Bridge Approach Road Collapses Just 17 Days After Opening
A portion of the approach road to a newly constructed bridge over the Tons River, between Prem Nagar and Nanda Ki Chowki on the Dehradun–Paonta Sahib Highway, developed a large crater following the overnight rain. The bridge, built at a cost of around ₹16 crore, had been opened to the public only 17 days earlier. Visuals of the damaged stretch circulated widely on social media, with many residents questioning the quality of construction material used and the structure’s ability to withstand the monsoon. Dehradun District Magistrate Ashish Chauhan said the crater would be filled within three to four hours, with the road reopened to traffic once repairs were completed. Police have advised the public to avoid the stretch and use alternate routes in the meantime.
Waterlogging and Fallen Trees Disrupt Traffic
The overnight downpour also caused waterlogging in several parts of the city and led to trees falling at multiple locations, disrupting traffic and slowing commutes. Persistent rain has weakened soil at various points across the city, contributing to road erosion in vulnerable stretches.
Administration Begins Damage Assessment
District authorities and local civic agencies have started assessing the damage across affected areas. Following warnings from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), residents have been advised to stay away from rivers, streams, and landslide-prone zones. Officials have reiterated that extra caution is essential in hilly and sloping regions during the monsoon season, as even minor negligence can lead to serious accidents.
Residents Advised to Remain Alert
The latest spell of heavy rain has once again highlighted the vulnerability of roads, drainage systems, and settlements located near slopes and water channels during the monsoon. While restoration and relief work is underway, authorities continue to urge people to remain vigilant until weather conditions improve.
Note: This report is based on the latest information available at the time of publication. Officials are continuing to monitor the situation, and further updates, including on the bridge damage investigation, may follow.
